I’ll be honest. I didn’t realize it been 20 years since I started working for myself until I saw it on LinkedIn. In that time I’ve worked with a wide variety of brands, projects I never would’ve anticipated, with different types of companies, a myriad of personalities and work styles, and ever-changing technologies.

Here’s a list of 20 life lessons I have gained from my years of owning a business that can be applied to so many part of life.

1. Partner with smart, reputable, trustworthy colleagues, vendors, and clients.
2. Targeting customers remains the same, even if the technology has changed. The hype may get an initial response, but it’s the quality that keeps people coming back.
3. Be honest.
4. When you end a project, always try to do it with a handshake. You just might meet that client again working for another company.
5. Keep learning.
6. Be curious. I ask a lot of questions, and it often inspires further conversation.
7. Actively listen. Take a breath. Then respond.
8. Read a few days worth of your emails before you send them out. Are you sending them out with a positive tone or starting off all your emails with the negative? (I literally changed my email tone after monitoring them about 10 years ago).
9. You will make mistakes. Admit it when you do.
10. If you are stuck, walk away. I resolve a lot of issues when I shut my computer and go for a walk.
11. It’s okay to say no to a project, especially when your gut tells you to.
12. Check your emails at specific times each day. Otherwise, shut it off. It’s amazing how much more productive you can be without the distractions.
13. It’s easy to get comfortable working alone. Face-to-face meetings can inspire change and a new direction.
14. Have a schedule. I find that time blocking my day (Using the Best Self journal) has improved my focus and productivity immensely.
15. Try something new.
16. Keep reaching. What’s your goal?
17. Most people really don’t like networking events. Do it anyways; set a goal beforehand. Someone may become a future colleague or customer.
18. Be flexible.
19. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to clarify, if you don’t understand.
20. If you are bored on a regular basis, it might be time to change what you do. Or how you do it.

And remember that if you have a stressful phase, sleep on it, as a fresh day and mood awaits you.

The journey continues.

Cindy